Coffee Tiramisu Cake

Coffee Tiramisu Cake is an indulgent twist on the classic Italian dessert, transforming it into a decadent cake form. This dessert combines the rich, aromatic flavors of coffee and espresso with layers of soft, spongy cake, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. The result is a deliciously moist and flavorful cake that has all the best elements of tiramisu—creamy, coffee-soaked, and irresistibly satisfying. Whether for a special occasion or a treat to enjoy any time, this cake is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Coffee Flavor: The cake is soaked with espresso and coffee liqueur for a deeply satisfying coffee flavor.
• Light and Creamy: The mascarpone frosting creates a creamy, smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the coffee-soaked cake layers.
• Elegant and Impressive: This cake has a beautiful presentation and is perfect for parties, celebrations, or as a showstopper dessert.
• No-Mess Layers: Instead of assembling individual portions like traditional tiramisu, this cake combines all the best elements of tiramisu into a moist, fluffy cake.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Coffee Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup brewed coffee (cooled)
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Coffee Soak:

• 1/2 cup brewed coffee (hot)
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste)

For the Mascarpone Frosting:

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
• Cocoa powder (for dusting on top)

Directions

1. Prepare the Coffee Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
• In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Gradually add the coffee, milk, and oil, mixing until smooth.
• Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
• Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Coffee Soak:

• In a small bowl, combine the hot brewed coffee, coffee liqueur, and sugar (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool slightly.

3. Make the Mascarpone Frosting:

• In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
• Gradually fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cheese mixture until well combined. If you want a slightly stronger coffee flavor, add the coffee liqueur and mix again.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes have cooled completely, carefully slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.
• Place the first layer of cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Using a pastry brush, generously soak the top of the cake with the coffee soak.
• Spread a layer of mascarpone frosting on top of the soaked cake.
• Repeat the process with the remaining layers, soaking each layer with the coffee mixture and spreading frosting in between. After adding the final layer of cake, frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining mascarpone frosting.

5. Chill the Cake:

• Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together and the cake to firm up.

6. Serve:

• Before serving, dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder for a classic tiramisu touch.
• Slice and enjoy the indulgent coffee-flavored layers with the creamy mascarpone frosting.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor)
• Total Time: 4 hours (including chill time)

Variations

• Flavored Frosting: Add a little cinnamon or espresso powder to the mascarpone frosting for an extra flavor boost.
• Tiramisu Flavor: Add a layer of cocoa powder or a dusting of chocolate shavings between the cake layers for a richer chocolate flavor.
• Non-Alcoholic: Omit the coffee liqueur from the soak and frosting if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
• Fruit Tiramisu Cake: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberries between the layers for a fruity twist.

Storage

• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: While this cake is best served fresh, you can freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake flavor?

Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake with a vanilla or sponge cake base if you prefer a lighter flavor. The coffee soak and mascarpone frosting will still provide the signature tiramisu taste.

Can I make this cake without coffee liqueur?

Yes, you can omit the coffee liqueur if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. Just use extra brewed coffee in the soak and frosting.

How do I get the cake layers to stay together after soaking?

Ensure the cake layers are fully cooled before soaking to prevent them from becoming too soggy. Be gentle when handling the layers to avoid breaking them.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake actually tastes better after it’s had time to chill and let the flavors meld together. Make it a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until serving.

Conclusion

Coffee Tiramisu Cake is a delightful and sophisticated twist on the classic tiramisu, perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. The combination of coffee-soaked cake, rich mascarpone frosting, and cocoa powder makes this dessert a showstopper. Whether for a special occasion or just a treat to enjoy with loved ones, this cake will impress with its incredible flavor and texture.

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